Accessport
User Guide 
Subaru Turbo Models

Product Introduction

Congratulations on the purchase of the Accessport handheld programmer! The Accessport is the industry leading OEM ECU flashing, managing and monitoring assistant. Unlock power hidden within the ECU by replacing conservative factory settings with more aggressive calibrations. The result is impressive gains in torque and horsepower while maintaining a high degree of safety. The Accessport can:

• Reprogram the factory engine control unit (ECU) with improved tuning parameters through the on-board diagnostic (OBD-II) port
• Monitor and log vehicle sensor data using on-screen digital gauges
• Read and clear engine diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
• Measure 0-60mph, and ¼ mile times
• Adjust idle and timing
  
  

In-Box Contents

AP3-SUB-001 Accessports will also include two initialization connectors. 

Mounting Options

A universal 'sticky' mount is included with the Accessport. For the best results, we recommend installing the mount vertically and preparing the mounting surface with the included alcohol wipe. 

• NOTE: It's important to note that not all surfaces provide a strong adhesive bond. 
• NOTE: The Accessport cradle is compatible with "Dual T" style mounts.

Pre-Installation

The Accessport comes with the most up-to-date software and map files available at the time of shipment. However, it is possible that updated software and/or map files have been made available since the time of shipment. Therefore, the recommended procedure is to connect the Accessport to the AP Manager software and download the latest firmware for the target vehicle. Please visit www.cobbtuning.com/apmanager to download AP Manager and to find a link for the AP Manager manual. 

If you have issues transferring maps or updating the Accessport while using USB 3.0 ports, please try using a USB 2.0 hub adapter. 

• NOTE: The Accessport is preloaded with a default set of maps for all cars that it supports. This includes Stage1 (all octanes), Stage2 (all octanes), Anti-theft, Economy, and Valet. If you would like to view all maps available you can visit the Maps section of our website. 

Screen Capture

Screenshots can be captured by holding down the [CANCEL] button for two seconds. Any stored screen captures can be retrieved by using Accessport Manager.

Customizable Startup Screen Setup

To change the Accessport's startup screen see the tutorial here.

Getting Started

1. You will need the Accessport and OBD-II cable to perform the installation. Insert the key into the vehicle's ignition and leave it in the OFF position. 

2. For Subaru models utilizing an AP3-SUB-001 or AP3-SUB-002 (Not required for AP3-SUB-003) Accessport, locate the green Test Mode connectors.

Impreza and Forester models will have this located under the driver's side dash to the left of the steering column (see left diagram). The Legacy and Outback models will have this located on the passenger side (see right diagram). With the connectors located, enable Test Mode by plugging the two connectors into each other. To ensure Test Mode was successfully enabled, turn the key to the ON position, but do not start the engine. You may hear the radiator fans cycling on/off as well as the fuel pump cycling and the 'Check Engine' light should blink. THIS IS A NORMAL FUNCTION OF TEST MODE. Once test mode is verified, turn the key back to the OFF position to continue. 

• NOTE: The Test Mode connectors must be connected whenever reflashing the ECU (Installing, Change Map Reflash, and Uninstalling).
• NOTE: In the event that the vehicle does not enter Test Mode after plugging in the green connectors, refer to the Troubleshooting Section.
  
  

3. On 2002 – 2005 WRX models (AP3-SUB-001 Accessport), identify the correct Initialization Connector for your vehicle (2002 WRX = BLUE, 2003 - 2005 WRX = WHITE). Attach the Initialization Connector to the corresponding connector under the driver's side dash. This connector will be located near the green Test Mode connectors and will be translucent white in color. Do not proceed until this step is complete.

5. Plug the OBD-II cable into the OBD-II port under the dash of vehicle. Then connect the small end of the OBD-II cable to the port on the bottom of the Accessport.

 

6. Make sure the clasp on the OBD-II cable firmly engages with the port.

7. Insert key into vehicle ignition and turn it to the ON position. Make sure climate control, headlights, and the radio are all turned off. If equipped with a push-button start, hit the start button twice without depressing the brake or clutch pedal.

8. Select [Install] from the Accessport menu by pressing the [OK] button to proceed with the installation.

Vehicle Identification

The Accessport will attempt to automatically determine the target vehicle for installation. Verify that the identified vehicle is correct and press [OK] to confirm.

If an error occurs:
Please refer to the V3 Accessport Subaru User Manual#Troubleshooting.

Map Selection

After the Accessport identifies the vehicle, it will present a list of maps. Maps that are not intended for the identified vehicle are displayed in gray. The Accessport will reprogram the ECU with the calibration data from the map selected for installation. This will become the base data for the ECU. To ensure the best performance, select the map that most closely matches the modification level of the vehicle. 

If you are unsure about which map applies to your modification level, please visit the Maps section of our website. You can find map notes for each of our maps by clicking on your vehicle and choosing your intake type. The map notes will list the modification requirements for each of our maps. 

Select a map and press [OK] to proceed with the installation. If you wish to see a longer description for the highlighted map, press and hold the [OK] button on the desired map. After reading the description, you can press [CANCEL] to go back to the map list or press [OK] to select that map and proceed with the installation. 

What Is A Map?

The Accessport reprograms the tuning parameters inside the factory engine control unit (ECU) using map files, which contain specially written instructions for the Accessport to follow during the reprogramming process. A map file can contain information for any number of different modifications or enhancements to a vehicle, ranging from a race map for a heavily modified vehicle to an economy map for a stock vehicle. Through the use of the Accessport and different map files, the ECU can be reprogrammed to accommodate virtually any vehicle configuration.

Save Stock ECU Program Data

After confirming the map to be installed, the Accessport will download the current stock ECU program data from the vehicle. The Accessport saves this data for use during the uninstall process to ensure that the vehicle is completely returned to stock. The download process will take a few minutes to complete. 

Install Accessport Programming

With the stock ECU data saved, the Accessport will automatically proceed with installation to the vehicle. At this point, the Accessport reprograms the vehicle's ECU with new program data and calibration parameters from the installation map file. This process will take several minutes to complete.

Installation Complete

Follow all on-screen prompts on the Accessport to complete the installation process. If applicable, disconnect the Test Mode connectors (green) you connected in Step 2 and the Initialization Connector you connected in Step 3. These connectors MUST be disconnected before operating the vehicle. 

The Accessport is now fully installed and ready for use and the vehicle's ECU is programmed with new calibration data. The Accessport does not need to be plugged into the vehicle for the calibration to be in effect. You can disconnect the Accessport at this time or leave it plugged in to use any of the many features outlined below. 

Please note that the Accessport is designed to work with only one vehicle at a time. Once the Accessport is installed, it cannot be used with another vehicle until it is uninstalled from the original vehicle. 

NOTE: AP3-SUB-002 and AP3-SUB-003 cars will need to recalibrate the drive-by-wire throttle body system after a reflash or ECU reset. After a reflash, when you first turn the key to the ON position the throttle blade will open fully then return to a closed position. During these few seconds, the engine may not start. This is perfectly normal behavior. The engine will start when this process is done.

The best way to proceed after a reflash or ECU reset is to turn the key to the ON position and count to 5 – 10 seconds before trying to start the engine. If you follow this simple procedure, the engine will fire up on the first try.

Accessport Features & Functionality

Press the [Up] or [Down] button to select the header. Then press the [Down] button to highlight the monitor you would like to interact with and press [OK]. You will then be presented with the following options.

Change Units

Metric – This unit scheme uses metric units: C, kph, kPA, Lambda

Metric w/ AFR – This unit scheme uses metric units (excl. AFR): C, kph, kPA, AFR

Imperial – This unit scheme uses imperial units: F, mph, PSI, AFR

Configure Shift Light

Press [OK] and using the [Up] and [Down] buttons, set the RPM to the desired level to have the shift light flash. Press [OK] to save the RPM you have selected. By default, the shift light RPM is set above the stock redline. This essentially disables the shift light since that RPM will not be reached. You will need to lower the shift light RPM to enable this feature. 

Press [UP] to find the Setup option for the Shift Light, where you will find the following options: 

Disable Shift Light – Disables the shift light function and removes the shift light from the gauges screen. 

• NOTE: When you initiate a datalog, the shift light will reappear to notify you that you are logging. 

Reset Shift Light – Resets the shift light back to the default value.

Configure Datalogging

0-60 MPH

To record the 0-60 MPH performance, select this menu option and follow instructions. A time slip showing the performance results will be displayed at the end of the performance test.

¼ Mile

To record the ¼ Mile performance, select this menu option and follow instructions. A time slip showing the performance results will be displayed at the end of the performance test.

Change Units

Press [UP] to find the Setup option for Performance where you will find the option to Change Units.

Metric – This unit scheme uses metric units: C, kph, kPA, Lambda

Metric w/ AFR – This unit scheme uses metric units (excl. AFR): C, kph, kPA, AFR

Imperial – This unit scheme uses imperial units: F, mph, PSI, AFR

Read Codes

Use this function to read trouble codes from the engine computer. Stored codes indicate a mechanical or electrical fault. Use the up/down buttons to highlight a code and display a short description of the trouble code (if available).

Reset ECU

Use this function to reset all trouble codes. 

NOTE: Just like pulling the negative battery terminal to reset the ECU, this will clear out any stored compensations and optimizations made by the ECU (such as long term fuel trims). If you are running a different realtime map than your reflash map, it will also reset your realtime map. 

NOTE: AP3-SUB-002 and AP3-SUB-003 cars will need to recalibrate the drive-by-wire throttle body system after a reflash or ECU reset. After a reflash, when you first turn the key to the ON position the throttle blade will open fully then return to a closed position. During these few seconds, the engine may not start. This is perfectly normal behavior. The engine will start when this process is done.

The best way to proceed after a reflash or ECU reset is to turn the key to the ON position and count to 5 – 10 seconds before trying to start the engine. If you follow this simple procedure, the engine will fire up on the first try. 

Memory Snapshot

Use this feature to save a snapshot of the current ECU memory state.  This function is primarily for use by Tech Support for troubleshooting purposes.  To take a Memory Snapshot, select Troubleshooting from the main menu.  Then, scroll to "Memory Snapshot" and press the center button.  You will then see the status bar.  When this gets to 100%, the Snapshot is complete.  You can then use AP Manager to transfer the file to your computer.

Identify Vehicle

Identifies the year, make, and model of your vehicle.

• For more details see - How To Identify Vehicle Rom Using an Accessport

I/M Readiness

Use this feature to read the emissions readiness test statuses of your vehicle. To read emissions readiness, Select Troubleshooting from the main menu. Then, scroll to I/M Readiness. You will see an extensive list of readiness monitors. 

Change Map

To change the mapping on your ECU, select this menu option and follow the instructions. The ignition must be turned to the "ON" position during the Change Map operation. You will be prompted to select a pre-loaded map. The same warning that apply to the installation process apply here as well (battery charge level, turn accessories off, etc.)

• Reflash: Permanent and complete reflash of the calibration onto the ECU. For AP3-SUB-001 and AP3-SUB-002 part numbers, the Accessport will request for the vehicle to be placed in ECU reprogramming mode. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete this step.

NOTE: It is recommended to keep your Reflash map as the map that most closely matches your mechanical set-up (example: If you have an upgraded turbo-back exhaust, leave your Reflash map as the Stage2 performance map).

• Realtime: Temporary and partial reflash of the calibration onto the ECU. The calibration will remain in the ECU until the ECU loses power or is reset.

NOTE: Common uses for Realtime map changes would be a temporary use of the non-performance maps (Economy, Valet, etc.) or an octane change (ACN91, 91, and 93) or wastegate duty cycle change (HWG or LWG) within the same Stage map. 
NOTE: The Accessport will only allow Realtime and Reflash maps from the same vendor. For example, a custom map from a professional tuner must be used as the Reflash AND Realtime map.

Adjustments

• Adjust Idle: The Accessport allows users to adjust the idle RPM up to +/- 100RPM. There are different settings for use with A/C on and A/C off. **Note: Only available on select models, This function can be found under the Tune→Adjustments section of the Accessport.
      
• Adjust Timing: The Accessport allows for global timing adjustment that can retard timing up to 5 degrees. **Note: Only available on select models
• Launch Control: The Accessport allows for setting a specific RPM threshold for launching.
• *Flat-Foot Shift (Not available for the 2002-2005 WRX): The Accessport allows for setting a specific RPM threshold for flat-foot shifting. **Note: Only available on select models
• *Reset LC/FFS: Resets the Launch Control and Flat-foot Shift RPM values to the defaults in the current map as flashed onto the vehicle. **Note: Only available on select models

• Notes:
  • • Launch Control and Flat-Foot Shift are only available for turbocharged vehicles with manual transmissions.
    • Flat-Foot Shift is not available for the 2002-2005 WRX due to hardware limitations in these vehicles (no electronic throttle body).
    • WARNING: Launch Control and Flat-Foot Shift (LC/FFS) are abusive to the engine, clutch, transmission, axles, and differentials. The user must accept all risks and responsibilities for using these features.
    • For more information on what these features do and how to use them, please refer to the Launch Control and Flat-Foot Shift FAQ document.
      
      

Restore OTS Map

Select this option to Restore COBB Off-The-Shelf Maps that have been deleted from the Accessport.   

Show Current Map

To see the last map that was flashed to your car, select this menu option. You can press the [OK] button to see a detailed description of the map.

• Reflash: The last map loaded via "Reflash" option during Change Map.
• Realtime: The last map loaded via "Realtime" option during Change Map.
  
  

Accessport Troubleshooting 

Support Contact Information

Environmental Information

Operating and Storage Temperatures

The Accessport is designed to be operated at temperatures between 32° and 95° F (0° and 35° C) and with relative humidity below 90%. Using the Accessport outside of these recommendations may result in damage.

The Accessport is thermally protected and will not function if the temperature reaches extremely hot levels. If the Accessport is not booting up correctly or the screen does not show everything correctly, turn the device off and move it to a cooler environment temporarily.

When storing the Accessport, do so in a place where the temperature is always between 0° and 115° F (-20° and 45° C) and relative humidity below 90%.

Never store your Accessport in an area that receives direct sunlight. 

Avoid Moisture

Take care to prevent any liquids from coming in contact with the Accessport or any associated equipment. 

If your Accessport or any associated equipment gets wet, professional repair may be required. In such cases, please contact technical support BEFORE attempting to use the Accessport. 

Handling and Storage

Your Accessport may be damaged by improper storage or handling. Be careful not to drop your Accessport or any associated parts.

Never store your Accessport in an area that experiences any noticeable levels of vibration, static electricity, heat shock, or excessive swings in relative humidity. 

Do Not Attempt Repairs Yourself

Never attempt to open your Accessport or any associated equipment. Doing so puts the components at risk of damage from, but not limited to, static shock. No user-serviceable parts are inside. At no time will ANY authorized representative of COBB Tuning, Inc. ask you to open or mechanically/electronically alter the Accessport. 

Opening the Accessport will void any and all warranties for the device and its operation.